Phishing emails are getting smarter. Here’s how to stay one step ahead.
Gone are the days of Nigerian princes promising you millions. Today, email scams look convincingly real, impersonating your bank, Amazon, or even your boss. In 2025, scammers have upgraded their game with AI-generated content, authentic-looking branding, and messages designed to trick even tech-savvy folks.
Email scams remain a top cybersecurity threat because, unfortunately, one mistaken click is all it takes to expose your personal data, compromise your accounts, or unleash malware. The tactics have evolved, but the goal hasn’t changed: scammers want you to take the bait.
Phishing is still the number one delivery method for ransomware, according to cybersecurity experts and the FBI. And it’s not just big companies—individuals and small businesses are prime targets too.
Here’s how to spot an email scam before you click yourself into trouble:
1. Suspicious sender address
The email might say it’s from “PayPal Support,” but look closer, and the address might actually read [email protected]. Sneaky, right? Always hover and verify before you trust.
2. Pressure to act fast
Ever seen, “Update your details immediately or your account gets locked”? Yep, scammers thrive on urgency. They’re counting on panic to cloud your judgment. Don’t fall for it.
3. Strange links or unexpected attachments
Good rule of thumb: if you didn’t ask for it, don’t open it. Hover over links to see their true destination before you click. Email scams often disguise themselves as harmless invoices, shipping notices, or job offers.
4. Generic greetings
“Dear Customer” is your cue to hit delete. Legitimate companies usually know your name and use it. Phishing emails are generic because scammers are sending thousands at once.
5. Weird formatting or typos
Odd phrasing, random typos, and inconsistent fonts might seem minor, but they’re huge red flags. AI is improving, but scammers still rush these emails out by the thousands, often slipping up.
Why do email scams still work?
Even with heightened awareness, email scams persist because scammers are clever. They use emotions, urgency, and convenience to catch you off guard.
They also follow trends and headlines, so watch out for email scams around holidays, tax season, or major data breaches. Fake password resets, urgent bank alerts, or scary-sounding security warnings are their go-to tactics.
Your best defense? Slow down, take a breath, and if you’re ever unsure, just get a second opinion.
What to do if you’re not sure:
Something feel off? Here’s your next move:
Don’t click any links, reply, or even hit “unsubscribe.” That just confirms your email is active.
Go straight to the official site or call using a number you already trust.
Remember: Legitimate companies never request sensitive info like passwords, Social Security numbers, or full credit card details via email.
Bonus: Want to test yourself?
Think you’ve got a sharp eye? Google has a quiz to see if you can spot the fakes: phishingquiz.withgoogle.com
It’s surprisingly tricky, even for people who think they’ve seen it all.
Need us to take a look?
If you’ve got something suspicious in your inbox, don’t ignore your gut. Just let us know what you’re seeing and we’ll help you sort it out.
Plugged In is your go-to blog for smart, simple tech advice from Martin Tech Solutions. Because technology should make life easier, not harder.
